We celebrate Thanksgiving in the USA this week and I would like to take a moment to express the gratitude of everyone at AG Bell for the many people who have supported us this year.
Thank you to the hundreds of volunteers who have given their time and talents to help children with hearing loss thrive.
You volunteered to serve on boards and committees, in working groups and project teams, and made us a priority.
You helped to shape our strategic planning, led our state chapters, and helped to share local stories to reach a national audience.
You have advocated for others and yourselves and guided parents to advocate for their children to help legislators understand Listening and Spoken Language and the needs of children who are deaf and hard of hearing.
You reviewed financial aid applications, selected sessions for the LSL Symposium, counseled teens at LOFT, and participated in program development throughout AG Bell.
I am grateful for all you have given and the many ways you continue to take action on behalf of children who are deaf and hard of hearing. I am personally grateful for the boards of directors and the AG Bell staff who have overcome remarkable adjustments to continue our mission to ensure that children who are deaf and hard of hearing can learn to hear and talk and live a life without limits.
I am wishing you all a happy holiday season. May your life be filled with people for whom you can be grateful and memories of celebrating this joyful season.
With gratitude,
Emilio Alonso-Mendoza
Chief Executive Officer
Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
PS: We know there are many more of you who volunteer on behalf of AG Bell in your geographic areas. Although we are not able to list all of your names here, know that we appreciate your dedication and support.